7 Quercetin Uses as Natural Antihistamine & Anti-Inflammatory

According to Wikipedia, quercetin is a flavonol (a type of bioflavonoid/flavonoid) that is found in a variety of different fruits, vegetables, leaves and grains. It is classified as an antioxidant because it has shown to inhibit the oxidation of other molecules.

Quercetin is under early-stage clinical research. Scientists are conducting studies to see if it can prevent or resolve several different ailments and diseases.

At this time, clinical studies do not have evidence that quercetin can cure any disease. However, this bioflavonoid has has shown to contain anti-oxidant, atherogenic and anti-carcinogenic properties.

Quercetin Uses: How is Quercetin Being Researched?

Byron J. Richards is a Board Certified Clinical Nutritionist, and he shares some areas of research that are being conducted that show potential including:

Quercetin helps activate the production of cellular glutathione. This protects insulin-producing beta cells of the pancreas which leads to healthier blood sugar.

It has also shown to offer antioxidant protection for cells lining the sinuses as well as mitochondria.

Allergies & Quercetin as a Natural Antihistamine:

Richards also states, “Quercetin’s antihistamine properties are now well established. It has been found to stabilize mast cells in a way that helps lower stress induced anxiety and allergic reactions.”

Furthermore, Frank M. Painter, DC of Chiro.org points out an interesting fact. The recent increase in asthma comes from increased exposure to environmental allergens and decreased consumption of antioxidants.

That may be why we are seeing such positive results in the treatment of asthma with flavonoids, specifically quercetin. Preliminary evidence shows that quercetin prevents certain immune cells from releasing histamine. If histamine does not release, we can avoid the allergic reaction.

Other research in the areas of inflammation and quercetin for allergies include:

2. Russell Faust, PhD, MD agrees that quercetin, as a naturally-occurring antihistamine, can help with symptoms of asthma, rhinitis and sinusitis.

What May Make Quercetin Better?

Examine.com reports that quercetin works better when used with other bioflavinoids (such as Resveratrol, Soy Isoflavones or Green Tea Catechins). Conversely, when used by itself, the nutrient has less impact.

They suggest using this combination to help treat inflammatory conditions, such as eczema and allergies. This natural alternative can provide relief without the unpleasant side effects of traditional medications. People have successfully used quercetin for hives, as a natural decongestant plus other allergic and inflammatory symptoms.